How long has she had dementia? Has her drowsiness come on gradually as she has progressed or is it sudden? I'd discuss with her doctor. Sometimes, it could be medication or depression. MY LO didn't want to get out of bed in the mornings, but, that changed when she got on a med for depression/anxiety. She started feeling more energetic and gets up fine now really early, but, she also goes to bed early.
Of course, sometimes, wanting to sleep could be part of her progression. I'm not sure what can be done about that. Maybe, others here will have some suggestions.
I agree with your suggestions Sunnygirl 1. My mother did much the same - and I examined her medications and then consulted with her doctor. Gradually titrated down some of her antianxiety meds; blood tests showed both her thyroxine and Vit B12 were down - getting these back into normal range also helped - although not immediate response. Sleep days gradually declined although she still has her "day in bed" every now and again - quite acceptable.
Most health concerns, whether physical or mental, can drag us down causing us to be tired. Even with a simple cold, we're exhausted, a doctor may prescribe rest, it does work wonders.
Most meds state, "May cause drowsiness," as a side effect. If your sister has been prescribed anti-psychotic drugs for her ALZ this may be the reason she's drowsy. These meds have to be the right fit for our loved one & then monitored, they're nothing to fool around with. Some health professionals will question the need for them at all. In the later stage of ALZ they may be eliminated all together.
More sleeping is usually seen in the later stage of ALZ. In the beginning stage my brother was like the energizer bunny. He was constantly up & about at all hours, on a mission to just be doing things.
Idle time may not be the best for your sister. If she is living at home you may want to suggest & find a day program for her. Activities, engagement & socialization seem to be beneficial for most stages of ALZ. Routine, consistency & structure, same old is also part of the new normal. Experienced & knowledgeable personnel for ALZ & memory impairments makes a big difference for everyone.
I commend you for caring for your sister. ALZ is a life change for everyone. Stay strong & focused & take care of you as well. Blessings🌸
Sorry to hear what is happening. I know its tough to see someone sleeping so much. I would definitely review her medications. I feel very badly about this with own father who has since passed away. I thought he was just a night owl. I would let him sleep the day away, but it was a mistake. More was going on and I needed to be more aggressive with his care. Never be afraid to ask questions and get a second or third opinion.
Of course, sometimes, wanting to sleep could be part of her progression. I'm not sure what can be done about that. Maybe, others here will have some suggestions.
Most meds state, "May cause drowsiness," as a side effect. If your sister has been prescribed anti-psychotic drugs for her ALZ this may be the reason she's drowsy. These meds have to be the right fit for our loved one & then monitored, they're nothing to fool around with. Some health professionals will question the need for them at all. In the later stage of ALZ they may be eliminated all together.
More sleeping is usually seen in the later stage of ALZ. In the beginning stage my brother was like the energizer bunny. He was constantly up & about at all hours, on a mission to just be doing things.
Idle time may not be the best for your sister. If she is living at home you may want to suggest & find a day program for her. Activities, engagement & socialization seem to be beneficial for most stages of ALZ. Routine, consistency & structure, same old is also part of the new normal. Experienced & knowledgeable personnel for ALZ & memory impairments makes a big difference for everyone.
I commend you for caring for your sister. ALZ is a life change for everyone. Stay strong & focused & take care of you as well. Blessings🌸